Once in a while a new musical talent emerges who defies all preconceived notions or ideas. These rare talents help to define popular culture and shape society at large. Nominated for "Most Promising Entertainer" at the 2005 International Reggae & World Music Awards, ISIS is truly redefining Reggae music.
British Moroccan, raised by a Ugandan stepfather Empire ISIS, grew up in different places and continents such as: Canada, UK and Morocco. ISIS grew up with a genuine love of theater and a strong social consciousness which would help her in the years to come. At the age 16, ISIS set off for South and Central America, bicycling through 7 countries from Panama to Mexico. Her adventures in Latin America ignited the spark that would forever change her; however, it was in the rolling hills of Jamaica that she truly found herself. While filming a documentary about the BoBo Shanti (an isolated group of strict Rastafarians in the hills of Jamaica that gave birth to conscious dancehall pioneer, Sizzla) she realized being on stage and singing reggae was her calling. It was on this trip that ISIS first encountered foundation artists such as Chinna Smith and Dean Frazer, who schooled her on the history and making of reggae music. ISIS put aside her camera, and picked up the mic. She set out on her most challenging journey: making conscious dancehall music for the masses. Dancehall, unofficially declared the music of the 21st century, is the platform from which ISIS speaks on every human experience from love, sex, and friendship, to ghetto life, politics and empowerment.
Her first studio effort, “Sound the Trumpets”, was recorded between New York and Tuff Gong Studios in Jamaica alongside co-producer Prayon from G-unit , Overstand, and Flava. ISIS has painstakingly developed her sound and image while maintaining ownership of all her songs under her brothers record label Monumental Records. The album features both roots reggae stars Turbulence and Sizzla Kalonji. ISIS has performed before thousands across North America - opening for acts such as Capleton, Bounty Killa, Halfpint, Elephant Man, Gyptian, Mr. Easy, Bushman, Shabba Ranks, Cocoa Tea, Macka Diamond, I Wayne, and Tanya Stephens and many more. Empire ISIS brings a militant, passionate, and high energy type of reggae music which can be appreciated by all. From her unique look to her blazing lyrics, ISIS is a true provocateur challenging peoples perceptions, stereotypes and common modes of thinking. Ultimately, ISIS says, "I want to inspire people to follow their dreams, to do what they're here on earth for.
MyTune.com
